‘Family To Me’: Denzel Washington Showers Praise On Close Friend Samuel L. Jackson At MoMA Film Benefit Honor

As a lifestyle expert with a deep appreciation for the world of film and theater, I have had the immense pleasure of witnessing the remarkable bond between two titans of our industry – Denzel Washington and Samuel L. Jackson. Their friendship, which spans decades and multiple collaborations, is not just a professional relationship but a familial one.


In my professional opinion, when it comes to the world of cinema, I’d say that Samuel L. Jackson is practically kin to Denzel Washington. This sentiment was echoed by none other than Denzel himself during his tribute speech at the Museum of Modern Art’s 16th annual Film Benefit.

In simpler terms, “The Gladiator II star said, as reported by People, ‘Lord forgive me, Samuel L. Jackson is extraordinary.’ He referred to the Pulp Fiction actor as a ‘remarkable talent and dear friend.’ However, what truly matters to him is that Jackson is like family to him.

Washington discussed the origins of his friendship with Jackson, mentioning that he viewed Jackson’s daughter as if she were his own, and that he considered himself the uncle to Jackson’s children. This is how their relationship started, according to him.

Jackson played a prominent part in an off-Broadway play titled “Mighty Gents.” As his understudy, I observed him. The actor I was backing up was dismissed after the opening night; I stepped into the role instead. I still remember him encouraging me to take on this job, boosting my confidence. Recently, Washington publicly expressed his appreciation for that act of support from the 75-year-old.

In simpler terms, the award-winning individual ended his speech by sending a sincere message to his buddy, telling him that he holds him in great affection and admiration. Washington was delighted to share this momentous event with Jackson and was eager to spend more time with him and collaborate together in the future.

In the past, Jackson and Washington have both appeared in productions, including the 1990 film “Mo’ Better Blues” directed by Spike Lee, as well as on the New York stage.

This autumn, Jackson will be featured in “The Piano Lesson,” which is being directed by Malcolm (Washington’s son) for his first major directorial project. The movie, co-produced by Washington and headlined by his other son, John David, is a follow-up to the actor’s 2022 Broadway revival of the play.

At the MoMA gathering, Jackson opened up about his deep connection with Washington, explaining that due to their proximity, their children have developed a strong friendship. He mentioned that he had known Washington’s children even before they were born.

Jackson expressed his delight about being involved in Malcolm’s upcoming movie, titled “The Piano Lesson,” which is set for theater release on November 8 and streaming on Netflix starting November 22.

The movie also stars Danielle Deadwyler, Ray Fisher, Michael Potts, Erykah Badu, and Corey Hawkins.

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2024-10-25 14:09